4. CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is derived from the same plant as cannabis, the Cannabis sativa plant, but it doesn’t contain THC, the chemical that’s responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. To be clear, CBD won’t cause a “high” like cannabis might.
Instead, CBD is a botanical bioactive compound that’s under extensive research at the moment into it’s benefits for many different health conditions, with promising results.
In terms of anxiety, it’s also showing promise. Much of the data does appear to be self-reported, that is, people reporting that CBD has helped to reduce their anxiety, rather than it being scientifically proven.
However, one recent small study in 2019 found that CBD each day reduced anxiety symptoms by almost 80% in those taking part in the research. Another study concluded “current evidence indicates CBD has considerable potential as a treatment for multiple anxiety disorders”.
Other studies show conflicting results specifically on the effects of CBD supplementation on the symptoms of anxiety, so it’s clear that these ongoing studies are well needed.
CBD is available as an oil in a dropper bottle that you drip under your tongue, as an oral spray and as pastilles and gummies. Start with a low dose to test how it might benefit you and experiment with different brands and styles until you find the one that suits you best.
